Why it matters:
Kazakhstan-based Iranologist Ainash Kasym highlights recent social, cultural, and political developments in Iran, noting how these changes have drawn attention beyond the country’s borders.
The big picture:
Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran and Kazakhstan’s independence in 1991, bilateral relations between the two countries have significantly expanded across economic, cultural, scientific, and diplomatic spheres. Iran has played an active role in enhancing trade and investment, offering educational scholarships, promoting cultural exchanges, and strengthening regional and scientific cooperation with Kazakhstan as well as other countries in the region and the world.
What she's saying:
Ainash Kasym, Iranian studies scholar, writer, and translator from Kazakhstan, highlighted the influence of Islamic Republic on Central Asia: “After the Islamic Revolution of Iran occurred and succeeded, it also influenced the social life of the people of Kazakhstan.”
Kasym pointed that in the 1980s, religion in Kazakhstan was often seen as “an opium,” reflecting the policies of that era. Yet, Iran’s example showed that cultural, economic, and political progress could coexist with faith.
She emphasized: “It is our duty to inform the people of Kazakhstan about the progress Iran has achieved and continues to achieve, and the significant accomplishments it has made.”
Go deeper:
Kazakh Ambassador in Tehran: Expanding Relations with Iran a Core Priority
Iran–Kazakhstan Celebrate Cultural Night in Tehran
F.abedi - seyed mohammad kazemi
